Restaurants, cafes, bars and clubs across the country are slowly getting used to the post-pandemic world as business returns to something approaching normality. However, in some cases, features that started as a temporary measure during covid have now become permanent as the hospitality industry evolves in changing times.
Thames Contracts specialise in high-end bar and club refurbishment in and around London, as well as fitting out new restaurants and cafes. Here we gaze into our crystal ball and look at what the next few months are likely to see in terms of space planning and design.
Separate Waiting and Ordering Areas
These came into their own during the pandemic, when takeaways were the only way of making money. Many customers have developed a taste for takeaways, for the convenience as well as the meal itself. However, this puts a premium on space, particularly if both sides of the restaurant are thriving. This creates extra demands on employees, too, which often makes it better to have separate areas (and, if possible, staff) for both. On the same theme, many restaurants are experimenting with walk-up windows which make it even easier for customers to pick up their takeaway orders.
Outdoor Spaces Still on the Up
Again, this is another indirect consequence of the pandemic. People ate outside because there was nowhere else for the restaurant to put them and remain in line with social distancing requirements. As with takeaways, people developed a taste for it (particularly during the warmer summer months), so expect to see this trend continue in 2023.
Whereas before this manifested itself in more ‘street seats’, in the coming months this is more likely to move upwards, particularly in crowded restaurants in cities such as London. Rooftop dining provides a window on the world from above, as well as a little peace and quiet.
Pod Dining
These can take many forms, including plexiglass sheds, plastic ‘igloo’ tents or glass partitioning – the last of which we specialise in, having fitted them (often in offices) in Hitchin, Potters Bar, and across Hertfordshire and North London. These dividers can provide diners with plenty of privacy and quiet, as well as help those who may be medically or clinically vulnerable and nervous about eating out post-pandemic. Remember these should be cleaned these every time a new guest or set of guests sits down, and be well ventilated too.
Open Kitchens
More and more people like to know not just where their food has come from (locally sourced is increasingly popular as people look to reduce their carbon footprints), but how it is prepared. In restaurant design terms, this is achieved by creating an open kitchen, so diners can see how their food is being prepared and cooked.
An Eye for the Picture
Like it or not, social media is a big influence these days on consumer habits. For instance, as mentioned in our previous blog, clothes shops are encouraging people to try on their purchases in-store and post pictures online.
And, these days it’s not just about diners posting pictures of their meals on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or whatever platform they use. It’s also about creating a photogenic environment. Whether that’s through artwork on the walls, serving food or drinks in unusual ways, having plenty of plants and greenery indoors (which also improve air quality), or using name branding in different ways.
Bar and Club Refurbishment in London and Hertfordshire from Thames Contracts
Whatever type of restaurant, bar, café or club you are interested in having refurbished or refitted, Thames Contracts can help.
We have an enviable reputation in the industry for completing our projects on time and on budget. After our initial on-site meeting, we will create a proposal tailored to your specific needs and budget. We look at all areas of your design including the lighting, flooring, layout, technology and shop front to make sure they all work in harmony.
If you would like to know more about any of our services, follow this link and fill in the online form. Alternatively, you can call us directly on 020 8368 0045.
